Mosquito and Vector Control assessment ballots show support
Ballot results from the Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s proposed benefit assessment shows more than 61% in support. The results were scheduled to be considered by the Board of Supervisors at its Nov. 18 meeting.
If accepted and enrolled by the Board, the assessment will support District services that protect residents from mosquitoes, ticks and other disease-carrying vectors throughout Santa Cruz County.
“This outcome reflects the community’s trust in the District’s work to safeguard public health,” County Agricultural Commissioner David Sanford said. “These funds will ensure continued monitoring, prevention, and education programs that benefit residents countywide.”
The new assessment would appear on property tax bills beginning in Fiscal Year 2026-27. Most single-family homes would pay $11.99 per year, with a smaller per unit assessment for multi-family housing. A full schedule is available at tinyurl.com/4he5734v.
The assessment supports a comprehensive set of public health services, including monitoring native and invasive mosquitoes, testing mosquitoes, ticks and other vectors for disease and providing inspections and guidance to help prevent rodent infestations.
The District also offers tick identification, delivers mosquito-eating fish for ponds and troughs, and responds to requests involving mosquitoes, rodents, ticks and other vectors. In addition, it conducts environmentally responsible mosquito control and community education to promote vector safety and disease prevention. Visit mvc.santacruzcountyca.gov for more.
Santa Cruz begins Wharf repairs this month
City of Santa Cruz has announced the start of construction on the Wharf End Interim Repairs project. The contractor is expected to begin mobilization in mid-November, and work is anticipated to be completed by February 2026, depending on weather conditions.
This project includes an interim repair at the southern end of the Wharf following damage from last winter’s wave event.
“The Wharf is where locals and visitors come together—to walk, shop, fish, dine and take in the view of the Monterey Bay,” said Parks and Recreation Director Tony Elliot. “This work is about caring for that experience and making sure future generations can enjoy it just as we do today.”
All Wharf businesses will remain open throughout construction, and public access to shops, dining and recreation will continue. Construction is scheduled to align with the quieter season when impacts to Wharf businesses, visitors and protected bird species are minimized.
When work is complete, the project will restore full public access to the end of the Wharf. Residents and visitors will once again be able to walk to the very edge of the Wharf, take in the ocean views, feel the sea breeze and watch the sea lions beneath it, a long-standing tradition that connects generations of Santa Cruz families to the coast.
These improvements help keep that experience alive and preserve what makes the Wharf special—a place where people gather for community and events, enjoy local dining and shopping, and spend time together surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bay. For more information on Wharf operations and updates, visit santacruzca.gov/wharf.
SLV Water District seeks new committee members
San Lorenzo Valley Water District is seeking members of the public to participate as members of the District’s standing committees. The District is currently looking for members to participate in the Administration Committee, Budget and Finance Committee, Engineering and Environmental Committee.
Public members of the committees serve in an advisory role only, must be residents of San Lorenzo Valley, and serve a term of one year, beginning in January 2026. Committees meet once a month during the day and members are required to review the information related to the committee business prior to the meeting.
People interested in being a committee member must complete an application. Completed applications can be returned in person to the District Secretary, 13060 Highway 9 in Boulder Creek, or sent by email to lm*****@***wd.com.
Applications are due by 3pm on Dec. 11. Applications will be reviewed by the Board and announced at the Board of Directors meeting on Dec. 18. Questions about the position can be directed to the District Secretary by calling 831-430-4629 or contacting the above email.
